Get matched with top structural engineers in Potsdam, NY

Q: Are ceiling joists load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they&rsquo;re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them. </p></div>

Q: What are the key elements of quality framing work?

• <div><p>Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.</p></div>

Q: Are walls on the top floor load-bearing?

• <div><p>Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor&rsquo;s foundation.</p></div>

Q: How can you tell if a crack is structural?

• <div><p>Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren&rsquo;t uneven across the gap, and don&rsquo;t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don&rsquo;t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.</p></div>

Q: Will a bank finance a house with foundation problems?

• <div><p>It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won&rsquo;t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Structural Engineering pros in Potsdam, NY

*The Angi rating for Structural Engineering companies in Potsdam, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Structural Engineering companies in Potsdam, NY is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Structural Engineering needs.

Last update on August 24, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
The crew completed the roofing project within the time quoted. They were efficient and kept the site picked up. The finished product looks great and adds so much to the appearance of my home. Bryan and his crew were very friendly, respectful and willing to explain the work and progress of the...
T&B NEXT LEVEL Construction LLC
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Reviewed in November 2024
Seth and Co provided outstanding and economical service replacing our garage roofing. We would hire them again in a heartbeat to do any job for us. They arrived early and finished the job in a timely manner. Great pre work contact as well. If you need construction work you canâ t go wrong with...
Seth Doxtader
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Reviewed in March 2024
I highly recommend Backbone Construction. They completed several projects for me. Including building a stair rail and fixing stairs, plumbing, electrical, roof work, cement repair and vinyl siding. All the jobs exceeded my expectations. They are polite, honest and hardworking.
Backbone Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in November 2023
Extremely professional. Geoff is a very skilled carpenter who paid attention to detail. He gave a great estimate of the work that was to be done and completed the project in the time frame that was agreed on. I highly recommend this company and Iâ ll refer to family and friends if they need...
Red Skye Remodeling
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Reviewed in August 2023
The professionalism within this company is outstanding from start to finish. Performance was exactly as stated and I had my new roof within two weeks which with the permitting process is understandable. I actually left for a few days and came back to a new roof. What a nice surprise! Recommend...
Covenant Roofing & Construction, Inc.
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Reviewed in October 2022
Josh replaced our electrical box and re-wired the whole system with new breakers. He made sure it met the houses needs along with being able to expand. Frankly the old one was a mess and he was able to find every line in the house and safely upgrade our system to handle the house and our needs....
J&J Plumbing and Home Repair
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Reviewed in September 2022
The guys did a great job on my deck and roof repair. Once the job was completed they cleaned everything up nicely, which I truly appreciate. Very satisfied and would recommend.
Dastconstruction
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Reviewed in June 2022
Assembled large pergola. They were hard working, meticulous & very organized. It was a pleasure to work with Murphy's Contracting and I would certainly hire them again.
Murphy's Contracting and Landscaping
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Reviewed in October 2021
The actual work was done professionally. However, the person doing the negotiations and contract (Coty Richard) was erratic and dishonest. Overall, he lowballed the quote on the contract, engineered a reason to break it, then charged be half again the cost of the contract. Also, actually...
KLM Services LLC
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Reviewed in September 2021
Brolex did a perfect job taking down 3 trees. Very competent, professional, safety first and I highly recommend
Brolex Tree Service
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Find Structural engineers in Potsdam

Thornton Engineering, PC

5.0(

)

Serving Potsdam, NY and surrounding areas

In business since 1960

"very positive. he was candid and knowledgable"

Recommended by100%of homeowners

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Structural Engineering questions, answered by experts

Yes, ceiling joists are typically load-bearing. However, their primary function is to support the weight of the ceiling and loads applied to it, like lighting fixtures and ceiling fans. They can also help support the roof, especially if they’re part of truss systems. Remember, the load-bearing capacity of ceiling joists depends on the material, size, and space between them.

Accurate measurements, sturdy materials, and seamless integration with other structures.

Yes, walls on the top floor can be load-bearing if stacked on the floor’s foundation.

Foundation cracks that are 1/8 inch wide or less, aren’t uneven across the gap, and don’t continue widening over time are usually just normal settling cracks and don’t suggest structural issues. Horizontal cracks and stair-step cracks on foundation walls, any cracks that continue widening, are wider than 1/8 inch, or where one side juts out beyond the other, are often indicative of structural damage.

It depends on the bank and the extent of the issue. Some banks will lend against homes with minor foundation damage, but most won’t if the issue is structural since the home acts as collateral for the mortgage. Banks that offer renovation loans might still finance a home with structural problems. More minor issues like settling cracks and intermittent problems with humidity are unlikely to stop a bank from financing.

The Potsdam, NY homeowners’ guide to structural engineering services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

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